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Duration
5 days
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 4 nights in a 3 star hotel
Meals
  • 3 Dinners
  • 4 Breakfasts

Price

$950USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: LV5

Trip highlights


  • Cycling through the heart of the Loire Valley
  • Exploring the many grand Chateaux
  • Experiencing the market places and rural delights of the region
  • Enjoying the culinary specialties
  • Sampling some of the many excellent wines in local ‘caves’

Travelling by bicycle is the perfect way to explore the many sites and towns of the renowned Loire Valley. Based in a delightful family run hotel in the small town of Chitenay, you will be provided with a bike, maps and route notes to discover the surrounding forests, vineyards and medieval towns and the famous chateaux of Cheverny and Chambord. In the evenings, soak up the warm atmosphere of the hotel and garden and sample the hotel's excellent local cuisine and wine.

Trip Grading

introductory

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

Make your own way to Chitenay and the joining hotel. Optional transfers are available from Blois train station on request (extra cost applies). The usual hotel is in the centre of the village where there are 3 or 4 simple shops. Your bike will be ready for your arrival on day 1 or by 9am on Day 2. 3 dinners are included (the dates and styles of which will be noted on your hotel voucher in final documents. If you wish to change, please ask at the hotel on arrival).

Meals:  Nil

From your base in Chitenay there are seven different self guided cycling excursions that you can choose from each day to explore the neighbouring chateaux, vineyards and forests: EXCURSION 1 - To the Chateau of Fougères sur Bièvre: 24km / 15mi – This short cycle takes you to the chateau in the heart of a small village. The chateau is a unique example of the feudal style typical of the 15th century. Take your time to soak in the countryside vistas and enjoy a picnic lunch en route or sample the local wines in the Cheverny appellation. Total ascent 174m/descent 176m EXCURSION 2 – Via the Chateau of Cheverny: 25.5km / 15.8mi – this excursion allows you to travel cross country through fields and vineyards and some quaint villages. There is ample time to explore the sumptuously furnished Chateau which inspired Hergé's vision of Marlinspike in the adventures of Tintin. Total ascent 74m/descent 77m EXCURSION 3 – Russy Forest: 24km / 14.9mi – this cycle takes you through the Forest of Russy and gives you the opportunity to visit the Château of Beauregard, famous for its Portrait Gallery. EXCURSION 4 – Chambord: 63km / 39mi - Cycle through the rich Domaine de Chambord forest, where a stop is essential to visit the most famous and majestic château in the Loire Valley. In its Renaissance splendour, the Château de Chambord boasts no less than 440 rooms. Total ascent 174m/total descent 176m EXCURSION 5 – Blois town and chateau 33km / 20.5mi - Through the forest to the Loire river banks and the stately town of Blois, worth visiting for its old quarter and also its château offering a brilliant illustration of the evolution of French architecture from the Middle Ages to the 17th century. Total ascent 124m/descent 124m EXCURSION 6 – Chaumont sur Loire 39km / 24mi - Passing through the countryside you cycle to the Loire banks at Chaumont sur Loire, where you can visit the picturesque chateau overlooking the river. An annual 'Garden Festival' takes place in its majestic park from Jun-Sep, featuring different interpretations of artistic garden composition based on a common theme. Total ascent 149m/descent 148m EXCURSION 7 – Sologne Area 42km / 26mi - A cycle through the heart of the vineyards of Cheverny, where you can stop at local caves to sample a glass of Cheverny blanc. NOTE: If you have a car you may choose to drive to Chenonceaux or Amboise, which are 30-40km / 18.5-25mi from the hotel. Fit cyclists could cycle to Chenonceaux but you should allow at least 2-3 hours in addition to the cycle to visit the chateau and its impressive gardens including a maze.

Meals:  B,D

Trip concludes in Chitenay after breakfast. An optional transfer to Blois train station is available on request (extra cost applies).

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 4 breakfasts, 3 dinners* – continental breakfasts are served in the breakfast room and consist of cereals, toast, boiled eggs, yoghurt, croissants, breads, jams, cheese, sliced meats, coffee, tea and juices. Dinner is served in the main dining room and will consist of 3 to 4 courses which include regional specialties – see below. There is an extensive wine cellar where you can choose a local or regional variety.
  • *2 dinners are from the regular menu: usually one choice per course with 4 courses served (entrée, main, dessert and cheese). As the hotel is known for its quality food served in the restaurant, the regular menu offers good variety and a great balance of flavours and ingredients.
  • *the 3rd dinner is from the superior menu: with more exclusive ingredients and refined cooking techniques.
  • 4 nights accommodation in a 3 star hotel on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities. We generally use a 3 star hotel in Chitenay, however at times we will use alternative hotels of a similar standard in nearby villages. There is an optional upgrade of room to a Balneo room - supplement applies
  • Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps, roadbook and GPS Tracks
  • 21 speed hybrid bike rental for 3 days (electric bike available on request - supplement applies) equipped with two panniers, helmet, bike lock, bike computer, map holder and repair kit
  • Tourist tax
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to and from Chitenay
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance
  • Guide – this is a self guided cycling holiday
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees including chateaux packages
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Entrance to spa
  • Optional arrival and departure transfers between Blois train station and the hotel are available on request - please ask our consultants for details
  • Handlebar phone holder – we recommend bringing your own to follow the route more easily using the app
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Printed documents are available - additional cost applies. Must be requested and will be provided locally at the joining hotel. Please ask our consultant for details.

Bike information


Grading

introductory  

INTRODUCTORY – GRADE 1 Daily cycles are between 24 and 63km / 14.9 and 39mi on flat to undulating terrain. The cycling is on a combination of dedicated cycle paths and low traffic side roads. There are some stages where you will cycle on busier main roads for short periods. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a reasonable level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. It is considered suitable for beginners and children (children’s bikes and trailers available on request).


Departure dates

Daily from 1 Apr to 31 Oct

Notes

H
High Season
Note:
HIgh season is from 1 May to 30 Sep, supplement applies

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$950USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Arrival or Departure Transfer Blois Train Station (Mon-Fri)USD$70
  • E-Bike SupplementUSD$70
  • Arrival or Departure Transfer Blois Train Station (Sat-Sun)USD$90
  • Optional upgrade to 'Balneo' room - ppUSD$130
  • Single supplementUSD$320
  • Solo traveller supplementUSD$340
  • Single supplement - upgrade to 'Balneo' roomUSD$550
  • Solo traveller supplement - upgrade to 'Balneo' roomUSD$580
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

Videos

Cycling the Loire Valley & Burgundy | France Tours | UTracks

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